About the Town of Purcell

Last Updated on Wednesday, 15 April 2009 11:03

Frequently Asked Questions - Purcell

Purcell, Oklahoma is an active town with an official population of 5,571 people. It is located in central Oklahoma South of Oklahoma City along Interstate-35. Purcell is the county seat of McClain County and sits on the border between McClain County and Cleveland County.

The area was originally settled by Chickasaws who raised cattle, horses and hogs on the land beside the South Canadian river. In 1887, Purcell was founded on land overlooking the South Canadian River, as a railroad station. The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroads all passed through the area. The town is named in honor of ATSF railroad director Edward Benton (E.B.) Purcell, of Manhattan, Kansas.

As the town grew many now historic buildings were built. The Love Hotel, which is listed on the National Historic register, holds many memories of the past and is still in operation. Purcell also played an important role in Oklahoma's statehood. On September 30, 1893 representatives from Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory held the first meetings for single statehood at the Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church at 319 West Washington. A model of the church can be found in the McClain County Historical Society & Museum at 203 West Washington.

Today, the vibrant town of Purcell offers multiple tourist attractions, opportunities for businesses, and a great lifestyle for its residents.  The Chamber of Commerce website "The Heart of Oklahoma" offers information for tourists, current residents, and potential residents on working, playing and living in the Purcell area. There are festivals, antique shops, restaurants, real estate, and horse ranch tours.

For information on the city's public services and departments, the "City of Purcell" website is the place to visit.   Here you can find information in the municipal court, police and fire departments, and animal shleter. A database of Hillside Cemetary records is also available.

If you are interested in living in Purcell or already a resident and have children, check out the school disrtict's website.  Find information on schools, athletics, and educational tools.  For more information on the Purcell schools, visit the Academic performance index (API) and Accountability Report Cards provided by the state as part of the "No Child Left Behind" initiative.

Check out the Pioneer Library System's Gathering Days album on Flickr for more historic photos of Purcell.  Comments about the people or places pictured are appreciated, so share your stories.